Archdeacon Cambridge’s Church of England Primary School, located in Twickenham, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on March 21 and 22, 2023. The school provides a safe and nurturing environment where pupils are happy and eager to learn. Parents and carers express high satisfaction with the leadership's efforts to create a vibrant and caring atmosphere for their children. They appreciate the numerous opportunities for community engagement, particularly through weekly assemblies that allow pupils to showcase their achievements. Older students take on leadership roles by preparing and presenting topics that matter to them, fostering a sense of responsibility and community awareness.
The school encourages pupils to take on leadership roles through the school council, which regularly discusses important issues such as fundraising for charity. Various monitors in the playground and classrooms contribute positively to school life, promoting a supportive environment where pupils get along well and help each other. The behavior of pupils is commendable, with rare instances of bullying. When such incidents do occur, school leaders respond swiftly to address the situation.
The curriculum at Archdeacon Cambridge is broad and well-structured, allowing pupils to produce high-quality work across various subjects. Music is particularly emphasized, with a large school choir that is well-regarded in the community for its performances at local events. Collaborations with organizations like the Philharmonia Orchestra provide pupils with opportunities to engage in music workshops and learn to play instruments.
While the curriculum is rich and varied, there are areas where the knowledge and skills that pupils need to develop are not as clearly defined. This can lead to missed opportunities for deeper understanding in certain subjects. However, school leaders are aware of these gaps and have plans in place to address them. Classrooms are described as calm and joyful, with pupils feeling confident to ask questions and collaborate effectively. Teachers demonstrate a strong understanding of their subjects and provide clear explanations, breaking down complex concepts into manageable parts. This approach helps pupils succeed in their learning endeavors.
Phonics and early reading are prioritized, with well-trained staff implementing the reading program effectively. As a result, pupils become confident and fluent readers, receiving timely support to catch up when needed. This includes assistance for those who are new to English. The school fosters a love for reading, encouraging pupils to explore a wide range of literature for pleasure.
Leaders are proactive in identifying pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring they have clear support plans in place. Staff receive regular training to help these pupils thrive in the classroom, allowing them to access the same curriculum as their peers. The school places a strong emphasis on the wider development of pupils, offering lessons and workshops on important topics such as health and online safety. A variety of extracurricular activities, including chess, tennis, judo, and dance, are well-attended, alongside educational trips that enhance pupils' understanding of the curriculum and the world around them.
Staff members report high job satisfaction, noting that leaders are supportive of their workload and well-being. The governing body is skilled and engaged, regularly interacting with staff to understand the school's strengths and areas for improvement. The safeguarding arrangements at the school are effective, with a strong culture of safety and regular training for staff to identify and report concerns regarding pupil well-being. Leaders respond quickly to any issues raised, collaborating with local agencies to ensure the safety of pupils.
In summary, Archdeacon Cambridge’s Church of England Primary School continues to provide a good education, characterized by a supportive environment, a broad curriculum, and a commitment to the well-being and development of all pupils. While there are areas for improvement in curriculum clarity, the school is well-positioned to address these challenges and maintain its positive trajectory.
